2024 Business Trends for Women Entrepreneurs
By Siân Morgan-Owen
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links for which I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase. I only recommend products I love.
Introduction
Ah, January! The month when the fairy lights dim, the last of the mince pies mysteriously vanishes (we’re looking at you, sneaky midnight snackers). The Christmas tree sheds its final needle in a silent, pine-scented protest. We’ve all been there – lounging a bit too comfortably in our festive pyjamas. We’ve challenging Grandma to one too many rounds of Uno, and who the HECK thought it was a good idea to buy the children (who are now in their 20’s) bloody nerf guns? I would NEVER have thought I’d be confiscating guns and dishing out stints on the naughty step. ‘No, you can’t shoot either Grandma’s’ was not something I thought I’d be saying!
The holidays have a magical way of wrapping us in a bubble of joy, relaxation, and perhaps a bit too much Baileys.
As the calendar flips, there’s a certain buzz that comes with boxing up those decorations and bidding farewell to the holiday season. Some of us might cling to that last candy cane with a touch of wistfulness. Others (myself included) can’t wait to swap our Santa hats for our thinking caps. Getting back into the work rhythm isn’t about leaving the holiday cheer behind. It’s about rediscovering the familiar, cosy routine that our work brings. It’s about reigniting that spark of creativity, strategy, and, let’s be honest, normalcy that our businesses thrive on.
At Digitally Dazzling, we’re all about embracing this post-holiday transition with a spring in our step (and perhaps a leftover mince pie in our lunchbox). We’re here to help you shake off the tinsel. We want you to refocus your goals, and dive into the exciting world of online entrepreneurship. So, let’s turn down the festive tunes, pour ourselves a strong cup of post-holiday coffee, and get ready to make 2024 a dazzling year for your business!
In the whirlwind of the digital world, business trends are much like shifting sands, constantly reshaping the landscape. Trends evolve at a dizzying pace, driven by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and the ever-expanding digital marketplace. Keeping abreast of these trends isn’t just beneficial; it’s crucial for survival and success in this fast-paced world. Whether it’s the latest in digital marketing techniques, emerging e-commerce platforms, or innovative ways of customer engagement. Understanding and adapting to these changes can be the difference between thriving and merely surviving. For women entrepreneurs, especially, staying informed and agile allows for not just keeping up with the competition, but often, staying a step ahead. In this digital age, being trend-savvy is akin to having a compass in an ever-changing terrain, guiding your business towards growth, relevance, and success.
The Rise of Outsourcing and Flexible Work
In recent years, the business world has seen a significant shift towards outsourcing and flexible work arrangements. This trend will gain even more momentum in 2024, with an increasing number of businesses realising the vast potential of these models. Outsourcing, once a strategy reserved for large corporations, has now become mainstream. Offering an efficient way to scale operations, access specialised skills, and manage costs. Freelance work, too, has evolved from a niche choice to a widely embraced career path, thanks to its flexibility and the diverse opportunities it presents.
Outsourcing enables you to delegate tasks that are outside your expertise, allowing you to focus on core business activities. It opens up a global talent pool, ensuring the right skills are employed for every aspect of your business. Flexible work models, offer the much-needed balance between professional commitments and personal responsibilities, which is often a crucial consideration for women in business. This flexibility empowers you to structure your work around your lives, not the other way around, leading to enhanced productivity and well-being.
Dazzling Top Tips for Leveraging Outsourcing and Flexible Work:
💡Identify Your Needs: Assess the areas of your business that require specialised skills or additional resources. This could range from digital marketing to administrative support.
💡Choose the Right Partners: When outsourcing, look for freelancers or agencies with a track record of reliability and excellence.
💡Clear Communication: Establish clear communication channels and expectations from the outset. This ensures both parties are aligned with your business goals.
💡Embrace Technology: Utilise project management tools and communication platforms to streamline collaboration with remote teams.
💡Flexibility with Accountability: While embracing flexible work models, ensure that there are systems in place to track progress and maintain productivity.
💡Feedback Loops: Regularly seek and provide feedback. This helps in refining processes and building strong, lasting relationships with your outsourced partners.
💡Legal and Security Considerations: Ensure that contracts and agreements with freelancers or agencies protect your business’s interests, especially regarding intellectual property and data security.
Time Management Success – Tic-Tic-Boom!
Tic-tic-tic-tic… No, I’m not doing an impression of Fresh Prince; it’s the sound of an entrepreneur’s day zipping by at warp speed! In the entrepreneurial universe, managing time isn’t just a skill; it’s akin to performing a daily magic act. Let’s face it, we’ve all wished for a time-turner (hello, Hermione Granger!) to juggle the endless tasks, meetings, and the occasional coffee break (because caffeine is our co-pilot, isn’t it?).
Now, let’s talk about the chemistry of content repurposing. Imagine you’ve penned a fabulous blog post – it’s witty, it’s insightful, it’s got more flavour than a gourmet meal. Instead of conjuring up new content as if you’re a content factory, why not slice and dice this masterpiece into bite-sized goodies? Transform it into snappy newsletters, sprinkle some dazzle for social media posts, or even morph it into a vlog or podcast.
Dazzling Top Tips for Time-Wrangling and Crafty Content Chemistry:
💡Plan Like a Pro: Grab your planner (or app, if you’re digitally inclined) and play Tetris with your tasks. Fit them in neatly, prioritise, and voilà, you’re an organisational wizard!
💡Batching Brilliant: Group similar tasks together. Like content creation, newsletters, social media, correspondence etc.
💡Embrace Your Inner Tech-Ninja: Use tools and apps that make life easier. Let them do the heavy lifting while you focus on being the entrepreneurial superstar that you are.
💡Smart Repurposing: Create a monthly blog (you could base this on the transcript of a podcast). Break down that blog post into your weekly newsletters and then break it down again into daily social media posts.
Instead of having to think about content for 12 blog posts, 52 weekly newsletters and 365 (at least) social media posts (and lets be honest, who falls off the consistency wagon after only a week or two?) you only have to think about 12 blog posts.
If you’d like to learn how to do this then sign up to my Repurposing Revolution Waitlist and be the first to know when the course is running again.
💡Delegate Like a Duchess: You don’t have to do it all. Pass the baton for tasks that others can handle. Your team, virtual or real, can be your knights in shining armour.
💡Be Realistically Ambitious: Set goals that don’t require cloning yourself. It’s about being a business owner, not a superhero (although we all know you’re pretty close).
💡Breaks are Your BFF: Regular breaks are not just for slackers! They’re the secret ingredient in your productivity.
Leveraging Cutting-Edge Technology
Think of a DJ spinning the tracks (do they still spin) that keep our business grooves smooth and seamless. We’re talking about all-in-one platforms, AI, and automation – the techno-trio that’s jazzing up the way we do business.
All-in-one platforms are like the Swiss Army knives of the digital world. They bring together various tools – email marketing, social media management, customer relationship management, you name it – all under one roof. Imagine having one dashboard where you can see everything from your latest subscriber count to your next week’s social media plan. It’s like having a digital butler at your service, keeping things orderly and running smoothly.
Then there’s AI – not the sci-fi kind that plots world domination, but the friendly sort that helps you understand your customers better. AI can sift through data faster than you can say ‘algorithm’, helping you tailor your services and products to exactly what your audience needs. It’s like having a crystal ball, but with data and analytics instead of mystical (or menopausal) fog.
Dazzling Top Tips to Integrate These Technologies:
💡Chatbots for Customer Service: Deploy a friendly AI chatbot on your website. It can answer basic queries, book appointments, or even crack a joke or two with your customers.
💡Automated Social Media Scheduling: Plan your social media content in advance and use automation tools to schedule posts. Publer.IO is a super easy platform and you can schedule to 3 platforms from the FREE version.
💡AI-Driven Insights: Use AI to analyse customer data and gain insights into buying patterns, preferences, and even predict future trends.
💡Email Automation: Set up automated email sequences for new subscribers, offering them a warm digital welcome to your brand’s family.
💡Task Automation with All-in-One Platforms: Use these platforms to automate invoicing, appointment scheduling, and even follow-ups. It’s like having an admin assistant who never sleeps (but in a totally ethical, non-exploitative way!).
A lot of All-in-One platforms have AI included in them, so if you are selling digital products, courses, memberships, one to ones etc then one of these platforms are a must. Affordable platforms I can recommend are:
By embracing these technological wonders, you’re not just keeping up with the times; you’re doing the Charleston ahead of the parade.
Nurturing Digital Platforms for Business Growth
Nurturing your online platforms is a bit like tending to a garden – it needs regular care, attention, and a sprinkle of creativity to truly flourish. Gone are the days when simply having a website or a social media account was enough. Today, it’s all about keeping these platforms not just alive, but thriving, buzzing, and bursting with engagement.
Think of your digital platforms as your virtual shop windows. They’re where your customers get a peek at what you offer, and you want to make sure that display is captivating, updated, and oh-so-click-worthy. Consistent engagement is key – it’s like having a friendly chat over the garden fence with your customers, making them feel valued and heard.
Content creation is the heart and soul of this process. It’s about crafting stories, sharing insights, and providing value in a way that resonates with your audience. It’s not just about selling; it’s about connecting, educating, and entertaining.
Dazzling Top Tips for Flourishing Digital Platforms:
💡Regular Updates: Keep your website and social media profiles fresh and updated. It’s like changing the window display of your shop – it keeps people interested and coming back for more.
💡Engage, Engage, Engage: Respond to comments, participate in discussions, and create interactive content. It shows that you’re not just a brand, but a community member.
💡Quality Over Quantity: Focus on creating high-quality content that provides value. It’s better to have a handful of well-crafted posts than a deluge of mediocre ones.
💡Know Your Audience: Use analytics to understand your audience’s preferences and tailor your content. It’s like being a good host who knows exactly what your guests prefer.
💡Consistency is Key: Maintain a regular posting schedule. It helps in building a loyal following who look forward to your content. Remember just because they aren’t engaging 24/7 doesn’t mean they’re not watching.
💡Diversify Your Content: Mix up your content types – blogs, videos, podcasts, infographics, short form video, static, animated, carousel. Variety is the spice of life, after all!
💡SEO Savvy: Keep SEO in mind while creating content for your website. It’s like leaving breadcrumbs for search engines to find and showcase your site.
By nurturing your digital platforms with these practices, you’re not just growing your online presence; you’re cultivating a vibrant, engaged community around your brand.
Embracing Authenticity with Value-Centric Business Models
There’s a refreshing trend that’s gaining momentum. Businesses shifting towards value-driven models. This trend is like a breath of fresh air in a marketplace often clouded with sales pitches and marketing gimmicks. It’s about focusing on creating real, tangible value for customers, not just selling them a product or service. Think of it as moving from a ‘sell at all costs’ approach to a ‘what can we genuinely do for you’ mindset. It’s less about transactions and more about building trust, relationships, and, ultimately, a community of satisfied, loyal customers.
This shift towards value isn’t just a feel-good strategy; it’s smart business. Customers today are savvy, informed, and they crave authenticity. They’re not just buying a product; they’re investing in a relationship with a brand they trust and respect. A value-driven approach is like hosting a dinner party where the guests feel cherished, listened to, and leave looking forward to the next invite.
Dazzling Top Tips for Embracing a Value-Driven Model:
💡Understand Your Customers: Dive deep into knowing what your customers truly value. It’s not just about demographics; it’s about their needs, pain points, and aspirations.
💡Quality Over Quantity: Ensure your products or services are top-notch – the experience matters.
💡Authentic Engagement: Communicate with your customers genuinely. It’s about having real conversations, not just broadcasting marketing messages.
💡Feedback is Golden: Actively seek and respond to customer feedback. It’s like having a compass that constantly guides you towards better service.
💡Transparency and Ethics: Be transparent in your business practices. Trust is the cornerstone of value, and it’s built on honesty and ethical practices.
💡Community Building: Foster a sense of community around your brand. It’s about creating a space where customers feel they belong and are valued.
💡Continuous Improvement: Always look for ways to enhance the value you offer. It’s an ongoing journey, not a one-time effort.
By adopting a value-driven approach, businesses can create a meaningful impact in their customers’ lives. It’s about nurturing trust, quality, and genuine care, creating satisfied customers.
Well-being in the Workplace
Well-being in the workplace is not just a trendy buzzword, but a crucial ingredient in the recipe for entrepreneurial success. Let’s face it, running an online business can sometimes feel like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. It’s thrilling, yes, but without a keen focus on mental and physical well-being, burnout can sneak up quicker than you can say ‘inbox zero’ (like that EVER happens).
For entrepreneurs, especially in the digital world, the line between work and personal life can blur fast. That’s why placing a premium on well-being isn’t just nice-to-have; it’s essential. It’s about maintaining that zest for work while also enjoying a cuppa in the garden, unplugged and at peace.
Dazzling Top Tips for Fostering Well-being in the Workplace:
💡Set Boundaries: Define clear work hours and stick to them. It’s like having an invisible ‘do not disturb’ sign that ensures your personal time is just that – personal.
Not to self, practice what you’re preaching!
💡Regular Breaks: Integrate short, regular breaks into your day. It’s the equivalent of pressing the refresh button on your computer, but for your brain.
💡Physical Activity: Incorporate some form of physical activity into your routine. Whether it’s a morning yoga session, a brisk walk, or a dance break in your living room, movement is a mood booster.
💡Mindfulness Practices: Try mindfulness or meditation. It can be as simple as a five-minute breathing exercise to help centre your thoughts and reduce stress.
💡Healthy Habits: Prioritise healthy eating and adequate sleep. Think of your body as the most important business asset you have.
💡Social Connections: Don’t let work consume all your time. Catch up with friends, join a club, or participate in community activities. These connections are vital for mental well-being. This is something I struggle with as friends with children, husbands and/or regular jobs aren’t always available when I am. They also don’t really understand what I do so therefore don’t really ask me about my business. So I’ve joined a couple of networking groups that are not only about business but also have a social element. I can work on my business, whilst learning from pears and also socialising.
Check out Peake Private Membership.
💡Professional Support: If things get overwhelming, seek support. Talking to a coach, mentor, or mental health professional can provide valuable perspective.
💡Celebrate Small Wins: Take time to acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. It’s like giving yourself a pat on the back, reminding you of the progress you’re making.
Remembering to take care of yourself is not just about avoiding burnout; it’s about thriving. By weaving these well-being practices into the fabric of your daily routine, you can enjoy the entrepreneurial ride while staying happy and healthy.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up the key trends of 2024, it’s clear that the landscape for women entrepreneurs is more dynamic and exciting than ever. From the rise of outsourcing and flexible work, which have revolutionised how we manage our businesses, to the importance of nurturing digital platforms and embracing e-commerce. Each trend offers a unique opportunity to grow and thrive in the online world. The shift towards value-driven business models underscores the importance of authenticity and customer connection. While the focus on well-being in the workplace reminds us that success is not only about financial gain, but also about maintaining our health and happiness.
At Digitally Dazzling, our commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs is unwavering. We understand the challenges and opportunities that come with these trends, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether it’s through our comprehensive range of services or our dedication to staying ahead of the digital curve, we are passionate about helping you leverage these trends to build a business that’s not only successful but also a true reflection of your values and aspirations. Together, we will embrace these trends, adapt, and flourish in the ever-evolving world of online business.
If you’re interesting in knowing more about repurposing content and making the process easier then sign up to my waitlist and be the first to know when I’m next running my course. SIGN UP HERE
